JACKSON – It has the steepest vertical drop of any wooden roller coaster in the world.
El Toro, Six Flags Great Adventure’s new wooden roller coaster, has made its debut at the Jackson theme park.
“El Toro breaks new ground for wooden roller coasters and is the perfect addition to our world class coaster collection,” said Ron Sevart, vice president and general manager.
The launch of El Toro on June 12 was highlighted by roller coaster enthusiasts from six states who took part in a “Running of the Bulls” led by Jesus Urtasun of Riverside.
Wearing traditional red and white attire, the participants charged toward the roller coaster to be first on El Toro.
According to Six Flags, El Toro’s construction was inspired by the agility and strength of brave matadors. The ride features a hybrid design with tracks that combine fast-charging drops with highly banked turns.
The ride delivers nine opportunities to give riders the thrill of being weightless as it reaches a peak of 188 feet and speeds of 70 mph. There are 4,400 feet of mountainous track and the ride has the second tallest, fastest and longest drop of any wooden roller coaster in America.
“Thanks to its modern take on classic wood design and its incredibly smooth ride, it caters to coaster lovers of all ages, both thrill seekers and families,” Sevart said.
El Toro anchors a newly themed area, Plaza del Carnaval, that evokes the sights and sounds of coastal Mexico and features a new Mexican restaurant, La Cocina. There is also a new marketplace shopping center at El Mercado and a new rocking, spinning family ride, the Tango.
“I had the opportunity to wait in line at Great Adventure [for El Toro],” Mayor Sean Giblin said. “They opened up the best ride in the park. My 10-year-old son and I had an absolute blast. I’m sure it’s going to bring a lot of people to Jackson. My son and I can’t wait to go back.”